10.2-inch iPad may launch as soon as September

iPad lovers may not have to wait much longer for the next big update to Apple’s most affordable tablet.

According to a new report out of Asia, Apple’s new 10.2-inch iPad — the expected successor to the current 9.7-inch iPad — could launch as soon as the end of September.

The source of the report, Digitimes, has a mixed track record when it comes to the timing of Apple product launches. However, the site has decent knowledge when it comes to which Apple products are about to launch.

Digitimes says Apple will release the 10.2-inch iPads in “late third quarter.”

New 10.2-inch iPad at 2019 iPhone event?

If accurate, that would mean Apple likely would unveil them at its September iPhone event. The new iPhone lineup might take a lot of attention away from the new iPads. However, a new tablet could inject some excitement into a potentially boring iPhone update.

According to the rumor mill, Apple also will launch new iPad Pros this year. We originally expected them to come during a separate event in October. Perhaps Apple will surprise us with new iPhones, iPads and a 16-inch MacBook all at one event?

Apple last updated the current 9.7-inch iPad, which costs $329, in 2018. Apple also launched an iPad Air with a 10.5-inch screen this year for $499. Both of the tablets support the original Apple Pencil, making them popular with students because of their lower price tags compared to the iPad Pro.